Baby Carriers, Baby Wraps, Baby Slings Reviews, Info.

The following directions will help you create an unpadded sling similar to a Maya Wrap. Slings are easy to make, and wonderful to use with infants and toddlers! I suggest you use medium to heavy weight 100% cotton fabric for your sling. You can also use a stretch cotton, or cotton blend. You want to look for a fabric that’s going to be strong, durable, and suitable for your climate (i.e., don’t choose to make your sling out of Polar Fleece if you’re going to be using it during the summer!). It’s important to chose non-directional prints. You will also need to choose fabric that is machine washable; after all, you’ll be carrying your child around in this sling and who knows what will get on it. You can also use mesh for a sling to take in a swimming pool or lake during the summer. The mesh fabric would not be strong enough for everyday use, but it’s great in the water!

Supplies:

1 1/2 - 2 yards of fabric (45″ or 60″ wide fabrics will both work, it depends on your preference. Length of fabric depends on your body size and how long of a tail you want)

Matching thread

2 heavy duty metal or plastic rings at least 3 inches in diameter (you can use macramé rings found in craft stores, or order rings made specifically for slings online)

Sewing Directions:

1. Fold salvage edge over 1/4 inch, and then again another 1/4 inch and sew, creating a narrow hem. Repeat on other side finishing off salvages.

2. Trim both unfinished ends of fabric along cut line evenly. Hem using same method used for salvage edges. You will now have a long rectangle of fabric with all edges neatly hemmed.

3. Next, you will create the part of your sling that will rest on your shoulder and hold the rings. You will need to divide the width of your fabric by three and accordion fold the fabric evenly. For example, if you have selected a 45 inch wide piece of fabric, you will need to fold it into approximately 15, 3 inch sections to obtain a neat three inch wide stack of fabric to loop through the rings to create the shoulder rest.

4. Once one end of your fabric is accordion folded, loop it through BOTH rings. Fold the fabric back against itself and sew securely to hold the rings. I suggest sewing several rows of straight stitching about 1/4 inch from each other.

5. Gather the opposite end of the sling together loosely in your hand. This will now become the “tail” end of your sling. Loop it through both rings, pulling it back through one ring only to secure it and make it adjustable.

Your sling is now ready for use! By pulling the tail through the two rings you can adjust and custom fit the sling to you and your baby. This sling has a large tail that can be used for discreet breastfeeding in public, a drool rag, and added warmth in cold weather. The lack of padding in this sling (as opposed to other types) makes it extremely versatile and able to conform to many different carrying positions and body types.